NEWS

Send a Syrian child a personalised message this Christmas

Syrian brother and sister (left to right) Sofia (3yrs) and Astia (4yrs) hugging on the sea front in Kos after making the crossing from Turkey | Image: RollingNews.ie

16:57 8 Dec 2016
Fionnuala Jones
16:57 Thursday 8 December 2016

World Vision Ireland is asking the public to help a child in an emergency situation this Christmas by sending a special message to Syrian children taking refuge in Turkey.

As part of the organisation's Christmas campaign, World Vision is sending personalised cards to those affected by conflict in Europe.

"We have all been shocked and many have felt a sense of helplessness at the scenes of traumatised children this year but there are ways that you can help,” said World Vision Ireland Chief Executive, Helen Keogh.

"Word Vision is on the ground in many countries around the world providing food and healthcare but also, and just as importantly, providing trauma and other psychological care to children. Even the smallest donation will go a long way in helping us provide these essential services."

This campaign is supported by Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham, who travelled to Jordan to meet with Syrian refugees with the NGO this year and witnessed just how far money donated can go.

"I left with images on my mind of children smiling, not looking up at the sky for what might be being dropped on them. Children drawing flowers, not looking up at fighter jets. There’s humanity, decency and dignity," he said.

To donate to a vulnerable child in an emergency or to send a message go to www.worldvision.ie or phone 01 4980800.